Hologram company Looking Glass has released its platform Blocks from beta. Blocks allows users to create, embed and share holograms on the web. Looking Glass describes the holograms as similar to GIFs but with holographic images.
“The progression from 2D to 3D content isn’t merely a technological step forward; it’s a transformation in how we perceive and interact with digital content,” says Nikki Chan, VP of Customer Experience, in a blog post. “Just as we all now naturally expect videos to playback with a single click (8-year-old me would be shocked), we’re venturing into a decade where 3D will be the expected default dimension.”
Create holograms from photos
Along with the release of Blocks, the company is adding a new image-to-hologram service that lets users easily create holograms from any 2D image. After creating a 3D hologram, users can embed it onto a web page, Slack, Notion and other platforms. Additionally, all new and existing Blocks users will get 20 free monthly image conversions.
Looking Glass believes that making flat 2D images into 3D holograms creates more realistic, tactile experiences. Over the past year, Looking Glass has added various new features to the platform. These features include new privacy features and a downloadable hologram feature, which lets users make their holograms easy for other users to download. In addition, the company has made the Blocks interface more user-friendly. Users can discover new holograms on the revamped, curated homepage.
Blocks works with any display; however, the company recommends Looking Glass displays. The company’s displays are directly integrated with Blocks, so users can easily cast their holograms onto their screen.
Holographic entertainment
While Blocks lets anyone create their own hologram, Axiom is creating holographic attractions. The company recently opened a holographic zoo in Brisbane, Australia, where visitors can view animals at epic proportions and participate in escape rooms. Additionally, the attraction features an elevated platform with a screen beneath it, which, through the use of holograms, lets users feel as though they are crossing a bridge above a deep drop.
Jack Brassell is a freelance journalist and aspiring novelist. Jack is a self-proclaimed nerd with a lifelong passion for storytelling. As an author, Jack writes mostly horror and young adult fantasy. Also an avid gamer, she works as the lead news editor at Hardcore Droid. When she isn't writing or playing games, she can often be found binge-watching Parks & Rec or The Office, proudly considering herself to be a cross between Leslie Knope and Pam Beasley.
